3-Day Private Safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda

If you’re dreaming of spotting elephants, lions, and hippos in their natural habitat, this 3-day private safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park might just be your perfect adventure. While we haven’t done the trip ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a compelling picture of a well-organized, exciting, and authentic Ugandan safari experience.

What immediately draws us in are the personalized nature of the private tour, the diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, and the inclusive approach that combines game drives with boat safaris. The chance to stand at the equator during the transfer adds a fun, bucket-list moment. The only caveat? The long drive from Kampala (around 7 hours) might be tiring for some, but it’s part of the adventure—driving through Uganda’s lush landscapes is part of what makes this experience special.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a comfortable, guided experience that blends wildlife, scenic views, and cultural moments in a private setting. Perfect for those who value flexibility, quality food, and immersive wildlife encounters, it’s ideal for first-timers or seasoned safari lovers wanting a focused, short getaway.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Tour: Exclusively for your group, ensuring flexibility and tailored experiences.
• Diverse Wildlife & Scenic Locations: Game drives and boat safaris provide a full spectrum of animal sightings, from elephants to hippos.
• Cultural & Fun Stops: The Uganda Equator stop offers a memorable water experiment and photo opportunity.
• Expert Guides & Good Logistics: Drivers are praised for punctuality and professionalism, enhancing the experience.
• Value for Money: Combines transportation, accommodation, and activities, with high praise for organization and hospitality.
• Ideal for First-Time & Repeat Visitors: Perfect for those wanting a compact, authentic, and memorable safari.

Detailed Review of the 3-Day Queen Elizabeth Safari

First Impressions & Overall Experience

This tour offers a remarkably smooth and well-thought-out approach to exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park. From the moment your driver picks you up at Entebbe International Airport, you’re on a journey that mixes adventure with comfort. The fact that it’s a private tour means your group can move at your own pace, which many reviewers find adds to the value—no waiting around for strangers or cramped group sizes.

The standout feature is the combination of game drives and boat cruises—a winning formula for wildlife enthusiasts. Reviewers repeatedly mention the quality of the drivers and guides, who are punctual, friendly, and knowledgeable, making you feel well cared for throughout.

Day 1: The Drive & the Equator Stop

The journey from Entebbe to Queen Elizabeth National Park takes about 7 hours, so planning for comfort is wise. The highlight here is the stop at Uganda’s Equator in Kayabwe, which is more than just a tourist photo-op. Visitors love the water experiments that demonstrate the earth’s division between hemispheres—a fun and educational moment. One reviewer noted how they appreciated this unique experience, saying, “We liked the water experiments and the chance to stand both in the northern and southern hemispheres.”

Driving through Uganda’s lush countryside and around crater lakes offers scenic views that are often missed by larger tour groups. As you arrive at the park, the excitement builds, and the rest for the night is welcomed after a long day of travel and the anticipation of wildlife viewing.

Day 2: Wildlife & Boat Safari

The core of this safari is the morning game drive and the evening boat cruise along Kazinga Channel. The game drive, lasting about three hours, takes you into the interior of the park where you’re likely to see elephants, buffalo, warthogs, and Uganda kobs—some of the park’s signature species. Reviewers note the abundance of wildlife and the professional guidance that helps spot animals hidden in the bush.

One reviewer mentioned, “The organization is flexible and always online,” highlighting how accessible and well-managed the experience is. They also praised the great food provided during the trip, which is a thoughtful touch after hours of exploring.

The boat cruise along Kazinga Channel is often highlighted as a major highlight. Expect to see hippos and crocodiles lounging on the banks, with the possibility of spotting elephants drinking or bathing nearby. The water-based perspective gives a different view of the park’s wildlife and is described as “spectacular” by many guests.

Day 3: Return & Departure

On the final morning, after breakfast, the group departs back to Kampala. The drive allows travelers to reflect on the last few days, with some appreciating the scenic landscapes and the chance to see rural Uganda up close. The entire trip concludes at Entebbe International Airport, making it a seamless end to your adventure.

While the return transfer is long, the tour’s overall organization and the smooth logistics keep the experience stress-free. Guests have expressed satisfaction with the flexibility and responsiveness of the tour operator.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Wildlife Abundance & Variety: Based on reviews, travelers frequently spot elephants, buffalo, warthogs, and Uganda kobs, along with other species. The boat cruise especially provides a fantastic chance to observe hippos and crocodiles close-up.

Expert & Friendly Guides: Guests consistently mention the drivers and guides are punctual, friendly, and knowledgeable. Their enthusiasm and professionalism enhance the safari’s overall quality.

Authentic Local Experience: From the Equator stop to the scenic landscapes, the tour offers more than just wildlife—it’s a cultural snapshot of Uganda’s natural beauty and rural life.

Quality Food & Accommodation: The reviews highlight good, fresh food, and comfortable accommodations that help travelers recover after busy days.

Flexibility & Customer Service: Many mention how the organization is transparent and responsive, with online support that makes planning easier.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $1,578.18 per person, the tour offers good value considering it includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and activities. The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized experience, which many travelers value highly. The reviews suggest that the organization’s attention to detail and quality guides make the cost worthwhile, especially for first-timers who want a hassle-free, immersive wildlife experience.

What’s Included & What’s Not?

Included are breakfasts, dinners for two nights, two lunches, and accommodation. The tour also covers all entry tickets for parks and activities as per the itinerary. Not included are insurance, international airfares, visas, or activities outside the scheduled itinerary, which is typical for such tours. You might want to budget extra for personal expenses or additional activities.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Expect a long drive on Day 1: Bring snacks, water, and entertainment for the road.
• Dress comfortably but prepared for wildlife sightings: Neutral colors, hat, sunblock, and binoculars are recommended.
• Be ready for early mornings: Game drives typically start at dawn, so plan your sleep schedule accordingly.
• Bring your camera: The wildlife and landscapes are photogenic, and you’ll want to capture every moment.
• Enjoy the food: Reviewers loved the quality and freshness of meals—don’t miss out on trying local dishes if available.
• Stay flexible: The organization is praised for being adaptable, so communicate any specific needs in advance.

This 3-day private safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a compelling mix of wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and cultural stops, all wrapped in a flexible, well-organized package. The combination of game drives, boat safaris, and the iconic Equator stop makes it a well-rounded adventure suitable for first-timers and seasoned safari lovers alike.

The care taken with guides, logistics, and food elevates the experience from merely seeing animals to truly appreciating Uganda’s natural beauty and hospitality. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a shorter, immersive safari that balances comfort, authenticity, and adventure.

If you’re looking for a quality, personalized wildlife experience, and don’t mind the drive, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments that will linger long after you’ve left Uganda.

FAQ

• What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 3 days, including travel, activities, and transfer time.
• Is this a private tour? Yes, it’s exclusively for your group, providing flexibility and personalized attention.
• What’s included in the price? The tour includes accommodation, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and all entrance tickets for activities.
• Are airport transfers provided? Yes, pickup from Entebbe International Airport is included.
• How long is the drive to the park? The transfer from Entebbe to Queen Elizabeth National Park takes about 7 hours.
• What wildlife can I expect to see? You’ll likely spot elephants, buffalo, warthogs, Uganda kobs, hippos, crocodiles, and more.
• Are there any optional activities not included? The tour follows a fixed itinerary; activities outside this schedule are not included.
• What should I pack? Bring comfortable, neutral clothing, sun protection, binoculars, and a camera.
• What is the best time of year for this tour? The tour runs year-round, but wildlife sightings are usually best during dry seasons.
• How flexible is the itinerary? The organization is praised for being flexible and online support is available for any adjustments.

In essence, this safari delivers a genuine Ugandan wildlife adventure with excellent organization and authentic experiences. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting an active, memorable, and hassle-free short safari.